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Definition Return to top
Orbital cellulitis is an acute infection of the tissues immediately surrounding the eye.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
Orbital cellulitis is a dangerous infection with potentially serious complications. It is usually caused by a bacterial infection from the sinuses (ethmoid or para-nasal). Other causes are a stye on the eyelid, recent trauma to the eyelid including bug bites, or a foreign object.
In children, orbital cellulitis is usually from a sinus infection and due to the organism Hemophilus influenzae. Other organisms such as Staphlococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Beta hemolytic streptococci may also cause this condition.
Infants and children up through age 6 to 7 years-old seem to be particularly susceptible to infection with Hemophilus influenzae, and are most at risk. The incidence of severe disease has decreased steadily since the introduction of HiB vaccine (Hemophilus influenzae B). Risk factors include sinus infections or injury to the eyelid including bug bites.
Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
Tests commonly include:Treatment Return to top
Hospitalization is usually required. Treatment consists of IV fluids with antibiotics. Surgical drainage of an abscess may be necessary. These infections can progress rapidly, and they must be carefully followed every few hours.Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
With early recognition and treatment, the patient can be expected to recover fully.Complications Return to top
Calling your health care provider Return to top
This condition is considered a major ophthalmologic emergency that requires immediate treatment. Call your physician if your child exhibits any swelling of the eyelid, especially if it is associated with fever.Prevention Return to top
Immunization with HiB vaccine according to recommended schedules generally will prevent most Hemophilus infection in children. Young children in the same household who have been exposed may receive the prophylactic antibiotic Rifampin, although this generally is reserved for siblings exposed to other Hemophilus diseases such as meningitis and septicemia.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |